At some point or the other, almost everyone has experienced at least one gastrointestinal symptom like bloating, diarrhea, heartburn, or constipation, while many are dealing with multiple symptoms. Gas by itself is completely normal but you need to be aware when it becomes a sign of gut imbalance.
To combat bloating, constipation, and digestive issues, today, probiotic supplements are being seen as the best defense. The purpose of probiotic supplements is to deliver more «good» bacteria to the gut, helping maintain a healthy microbial population.
Microbiome consists of all the bacterial and viral microorganisms that live on our skin, fingernails, mouths, eyes, genitals, and perhaps most importantly, in the gut. It plays two key roles in digestion. The good bacteria help us break down indigestible fiber, making more nutrients available to us. In the process, they produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and vitamins that we can absorb. While they primarily provide energy for the cells of the colon, they also travel throughout the body, influencing metabolism, inflammation, appetite, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure.
It is also important to know that it’s always better to get nutrients from food. That includes probiotics. One reason is because supplements aren’t regulated as closely as medications. So, the quality and ingredients can vary greatly from product to product. Everyone’s microbiome – the collection of bacteria in their body – is different and exists in a delicate balance. So, a probiotic supplement that helps one person might not help someone else.
Note that sometimes starting a probiotic can actually cause bloating and flatulence. Pay careful attention to labels and look for particular strains to ensure you are supplementing with the right probiotic for you. Asking a medical professional is always the smarter thing to do.
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